Mon Cheri Cafe & Bistro

French bistro fare executed with precision, from classic sauces to delicate pastries. Outdoor seating available; Wheelchair accessible; Takeout available. It is the kind of place locals like to keep to themselves, though the word spreads quickly.

A French restaurant on State Street in Carlsbad Village with patio seating, beer and wine, open for dinner Wednesday through Sunday.

A relaxed American kitchen and tap house on South Coast Highway, open from lunch into late night and from 9 AM on weekends. Patio seating, live music and a family-friendly room make it work for all kinds of groups. Takeout and delivery are available too.

American food on the 101 in downtown Encinitas with outdoor seating, beer and wine, and live music. Open Tuesday through Sunday and until midnight on Friday and Saturday. Families and groups are welcome, and takeout and delivery are available.

A casual counter on B Street a short walk from the 101, open daily from morning into early evening. Grab it to go or sit on the patio; kids are welcome.

A Hawaiian restaurant on Santa Fe Drive with a patio, live music, beer and wine, open daily.

An upscale American restaurant on North Coast Highway with outdoor seating, beer and wine. Hours change through the week, with lunch early in the week and dinner Wednesday through Saturday, so check before you go. A free lot and street parking make the stop easy.

Chicken is the focus at this casual spot on Encinitas Boulevard, with beer, wine and an outdoor patio where dogs are welcome. Good for kids and groups, it is open daily from mid-morning into the evening and offers takeout and delivery.